Pune: PMC Warns Bakeries, Food Traders of Action for Not Using Green Fuel
Pune, 2nd November 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has warned that strict action will be taken against bakeries, hotels, and food traders in the city that continue to use polluting fuels such as wood and coal. The directive follows the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board’s (MPCB) new guidelines mandating the use of clean energy sources like LPG, PNG, and electricity.
The warning was issued by PMC’s Environment Department after a meeting held with members of the Bakery Association, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Ravi Pawar. The meeting aimed to raise awareness about the new pollution control norms and understand the challenges faced by the bakery industry in switching to green fuels.
To maintain healthy air quality across Maharashtra’s cities, the MPCB has taken several steps under Section 31(a) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. These include guidelines for replacing traditional fuels with environmentally friendly options in bakeries, hotels, restaurants, food stalls, and dhabas.
During the meeting, the Bakery Association informed that around 750 bakeries operate within Pune city limits, and another 200–250 function in the suburbs. Most have already adopted cleaner fuels, while some are in the process of conversion. The association also raised concerns about the financial burden of switching to green energy and requested support from the civic body.
Deputy Commissioner Ravi Pawar assured that the PMC would continue to engage with industry representatives to resolve their issues. “The organization’s side has been understood, and positive discussions have been held between both parties. Every effort will be made to reduce pollution,” he said.
It was also decided that the PMC and Bakery Association would work jointly to promote cleaner energy use across the city. However, the civic body made it clear that strict action will be taken against establishments that fail to comply with pollution control guidelines.
The initiative is part of PMC’s broader strategy to curb rising air pollution levels in Pune by encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly fuel alternatives.
